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Feminist Theory :

Feminist theory with reference to power says that the basis of division of power in the society is genderistic. All the strength of the society is with the men and they use their power over women. Therefore, on this basis, women started movements in Europe who wanted to end male dominance. But Indian tradition towards women is different from west. In Indian philosophy, women are regarded as Goddess and mothers are regarded more than fathers.

There are some limits of authority which prevent its misuse. These are constitutional laws, culture, traditions and moral concepts. The authority works under these limits.

 Following are the main differences between traditional and charismatic authorities :

Two bases of obeying the authority are following :

• Belief :

Belief is the most important base behind the obedience of the authority. Subordinates obey the orders of their authority because they have faith in him/her. The more deep is this faith in authority, more easy is to obey the orders and for this the authority needs not to use of power.

• Uniformity : 

The uniformity of thoughts and ideals between authority and subordinates is also one of the important reasons behind obedience of authority. Generally people give more importance to suggestions and orders of those who have ideological uniformity with them (subordinates).

One of the main principles of power division is a pluralistic theory which is different from the other principles. Class dominance, specific class and feminist claims that the use of power is divided into two groups : powerful and powerless. But according to pluralistic theory all power in society is divided into many groups, not in the hands of any one class. In the liberal democratic system, continuous bargain between these groups continues. Hence, on the basis of power, society does not have exploitation system. It is an Indian concept, which is not based on exploitation or class struggle but is based on responsibility which is believed to be the powerful means to use its power for public interest. In this theory, emphasis has been laid on establishing a common society by empowering the powerless.

According to specific class theory, on the basis of power, society is divided into two groups- the specific class which is powerful and the general class on which power is used. But according to this principle, this class division is not only on economic basis but it has many capacities, intelligence, management capacity, leadership capacity etc. On the basis of these merits in each and every type of governance, a small class of society emerges which is powerful and uses its power over the common people. Politicians, industrialists, lawyers, professors, doctors etc. together create a class that is always powerful, even though formally there is a government of any party.

These are : 

1. Belief, and 

2. Uniformity